One Pot Garlic Parmesan Pasta with Spinach and Mushrooms – A Creamy Weeknight Delight

Nothing says comfort food like a creamy, cheesy pasta, and this One Pot Garlic Parmesan Pasta with Spinach and Mushrooms is the ultimate weeknight winner. Not only is it easy to make, but it’s also packed with flavor, vegetables, and cheesy goodness—all cooked in one pot for minimal cleanup.

Whether you’re looking for a quick dinner after a busy day or a dish that will impress your family and friends, this recipe has it all. From tender mushrooms to vibrant spinach and rich garlic-infused parmesan sauce, each bite is a comforting hug on a plate.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• One-pot convenience: No need to juggle multiple pots or pans; everything cooks together.
• Rich and creamy flavor: Parmesan cheese, garlic, and cream create a luxurious sauce.
• Healthy greens: Spinach adds vitamins and minerals while keeping the pasta light.
• Quick prep: Ready in under 30 minutes, perfect for busy nights.
• Vegetarian-friendly: Skip the meat but still get protein from the cheese.

Ingredients

• 12 oz (340g) pasta (fettuccine, penne, or rotini)
• 2 tbsp unsalted butter
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 8 oz (225g) mushrooms, sliced
• 4 cups fresh spinach
• 2 cups heavy cream or half-and-half
• 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1/2 tsp salt (adjust to taste)
• 1/4 tsp black pepper
• 1/4 tsp crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
• 2 cups vegetable or chicken broth
• 1 tsp lemon juice (optional, for brightness)
• Fresh parsley or extra parmesan for garnish

Instructions

1. Cook pasta: In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil and cook pasta 1–2 minutes less than package instructions (it will finish cooking in the sauce). Drain and set aside.
2. Sauté vegetables: In the same pot, melt butter with olive oil over medium heat. Add garlic and sauté for 30 seconds until fragrant. Add mushrooms and cook until golden brown, about 5–6 minutes.
3. Add liquid and spinach: Pour in the broth and heavy cream, stirring to combine. Bring to a gentle simmer. Add the spinach and cook until wilted, about 2 minutes.
4. Combine pasta: Add the partially cooked pasta back into the pot. Stir gently to coat the pasta evenly in the creamy sauce.
5. Add cheese and seasonings: Stir in Parmesan cheese, salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes. Cook for 2–3 minutes until the sauce thickens slightly and the cheese melts.
6. Finish with brightness: Add a teaspoon of lemon juice to enhance the flavor (optional).
7. Serve immediately: Plate the pasta, garnish with extra parmesan and parsley. Enjoy hot!

One Pot Garlic Parmesan Pasta with Spinach and Mushrooms

A creamy, cheesy pasta with garlic, mushrooms, and fresh spinach, all made in one pot for a quick and easy dinner.

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Prep Time 10 minutes mins

Cook Time 20 minutes mins

Total Time 30 minutes mins

Servings: 4 servings

Course: Main Dish

Cuisine: American, Italian

Calories: 480

Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients

  

Pasta and Sauce

• 12 oz pasta fettuccine, penne, or rotini
• 2 tbsp unsalted butter
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 4 cloves garlic minced
• 8 oz mushrooms sliced
• 4 cups fresh spinach
• 2 cups heavy cream or half-and-half
• 1 cup Parmesan cheese grated
• 0.5 tsp salt
• 0.25 tsp black pepper
• 0.25 tsp crushed red pepper flakes optional
• 2 cups vegetable or chicken broth
• 1 tsp lemon juice optional

Equipment

• Large pot
• Wooden spoon
• Chef’s knife
• Cutting board

Method

 

1. Cook pasta 1–2 minutes less than package instructions, drain, and set aside.
2. In the same pot, melt butter with olive oil over medium heat. Sauté garlic 30 seconds.
3. Add mushrooms and cook until golden brown, about 5–6 minutes.
4. Pour in broth and cream, stir, and bring to a gentle simmer.
5. Add spinach and cook until wilted, about 2 minutes.
6. Return pasta to the pot and stir to coat with sauce.
7. Add Parmesan, salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes. Cook 2–3 minutes until sauce thickens.
8. Finish with lemon juice if using, garnish, and serve immediately.

Notes

For extra flavor, use a mix of mushrooms and freshly grated parmesan. Leftovers reheat with a splash of milk.

Tips & Tricks

• Prevent clumping: Stir pasta often while simmering in the sauce.
• Make it lighter: Use half-and-half instead of heavy cream.
• Add protein: Grilled chicken, shrimp, or tofu can make it a full meal.
• Use fresh parmesan: Pre-grated cheese is convenient but fresh parmesan melts better and enhances flavor.

Variations

• Mushroom Medley: Mix cremini, shiitake, and button mushrooms for an earthy depth.
• Spinach Swap: Kale or Swiss chard can be used instead of spinach for a heartier texture.
• Herb Boost: Add thyme, oregano, or basil for more aromatic flavor.

Serving Suggestions

• Pair with a crisp green salad and garlic bread for a complete meal.
• Perfect for a cozy dinner, family gatherings, or date nights at home.
• Leftovers reheat well—just add a splash of milk to loosen the sauce.

Fun Fact

Garlic and parmesan pasta has roots in Italian cuisine, particularly in regions where butter, cheese, and fresh herbs were staples. Combining these ingredients in a one-pot dish makes for a modern, convenient twist while keeping the comforting flavors intact.

Nutrition (per serving)

• Calories: 480
• Carbohydrates: 52g
• Protein: 18g
• Fat: 22g
• Saturated Fat: 12g
• Cholesterol: 65mg
• Sodium: 550mg
• Fiber: 4g
• Sugar: 4g
• Vitamin A: 15%
• Vitamin C: 8%
• Calcium: 30%
• Iron: 10%